Google is rolling out new artificial intelligence features for Gmail, powered by its Gemini AI assistant, aimed at simplifying email management and boosting productivity. The key updates include a Gemini side panel in the Gmail web interface and enhanced summarisation and search capabilities across both web and mobile versions of the email service.
The Gemini side panel, now available to Google Workspace customers and Google One AI Premium subscribers, offers a suite of intelligent tools. Users can request Gemini to summarise email threads, providing concise overviews to quickly catch up on lengthy conversations. The AI assistant can also draft email responses based on user prompts, which allows for more efficient communication.
Contextual Smart Reply and Gmail Q&A
Google is also introducing Contextual Smart Reply in Gmail, which will offer more detailed and nuanced suggested replies based on the context of the email thread. Users can simply send the suggested reply as-is or edit it further.
A new Gmail Q&A feature will also allow users to ask Gemini specific questions about their inbox, such as finding a particular email or document. With this new technology, individuals can now ask Gemini questions like “When are my shoes arriving?” or “What time do the doors open for the Knicks game?” and the AI will scour their emails to surface the relevant information. This feature aims to help users quickly find details and important data buried in their inboxes.
More Gemini Capabilities
Gemini’s integration with Gmail extends to other areas of email management. For instance, users can leverage Gemini to draft polite declines for event invitations they cannot attend, ensuring they maintain professional relationships while managing their schedules effectively.
Moreover, Gemini’s natural language processing capabilities can assist in creating engaging promotional emails and newsletters. Users can generate compelling content that highlights their products, services, or achievements by providing detailed prompts, thus saving time and effort in the process.
Google Cloud Community Support
To further support users, Google is encouraging Workspace administrators and other Gmail power users to engage with the Google Cloud Community. There, they can connect with Googlers, participate in product discussions, and learn tips and tricks to maximise their experience with the evolving Gmail and Workspace ecosystem.
Caveats
However, the integration of Gemini into Gmail is not without caveats. These AI-powered tools will only be accessible to paid Gemini users, excluding free Gmail account holders. Additionally, experts caution against over-relying on Gemini’s assistance, as AI systems can sometimes misinterpret information. It is recommended that users double-check any important emails generated or summarised by Gemini before sending them.
The introduction of Gemini in Gmail displays the company’s efforts to streamline email management and empower users to better navigate their inboxes. While these features may prove beneficial for some, it is crucial for individuals to approach them with a discerning eye and maintain a balanced reliance on both human judgement and AI-assisted tools.